The armies of Israel, along with Saul and Jonathan had been defeated by the Philistines. Both had been struck down in the fighting. Three days later an Amalekite came into David’s camp with the sad news of the rout of the army and of the tragic deaths of Saul and Jonathan. The Amalekite lied to David, telling him he killed Saul. He also brought Saul’s crown and arm band to give to David, thinking that David would reward him for his role in Saul’s death and would be grateful for what he brought David. After all, Saul had tormented David for a long time. But David was not grateful at all. He honored and respected Saul as God’s anointed. David sentenced the Amalekite to death, saying, “Why weren’t you afraid to lift your hand to destroy the Lord’s anointed?” We should always respect and honor those the Lord has put over us.

David took up a lament for Saul and Jonathan and ordered that the people of Judah learn it. He was sorry that the Philistines would hear of the victory and rejoice. Mt Gilboa was the place of defeat. It would be a place of shame. He grieved for Saul, saying, “How the mighty have fallen!” And he grieved for his friend Jonathan, whom he loved as his brother.
Application: Father, help us to honor and respect our leaders, for they are the ones chosen by you to govern and lead us.
One Word: Respect the Lord’s anointed.